During a trip to the January sales, I called in at one of my favourite shops (Waterstones on Deansgate) and discovered a fantastic book. ‘Fruits’ by Shoichi Aoki is a collection of over 250 photographs of Tokyo based teenagers. Aoki is the publisher of Japan’s leading street magazine of the same name, which began in 1997. The book illustrates the best of ‘Fruits’ and also includes translations of the original captions which include the names, ages, clothing and influences of each teenager.

In his Foreword, Aoshi explains about the recent changes in Japanese fashion and how this has been influenced by, amongst others, a group of teenagers from the Harajuku district of Tokyo. He talks about how this group of teenagers view fashion as ‘a direct means of expressing themselves’ and how they have ‘transformed their everyday attire into a fashion statement or personalized artwork.’

The designs are a curious mixture of designer labels such as Vivienne Westwood, elaborate home made outfits and distinctive accessories, which include toys and charm laden jewellery.

As well as being a huge source of inspiration for all designers, the book gives a great insight into the Japanese street scene. Aoki writes, ‘It doesn’t matter what kind of clothes individual designers make. What is important are one’s thoughts and the ability to express them, one’s life and its relationship to the environment. When such elements are combined they create a sculpture. This sculpture I call street fashion.’

‘Fruits’ and the second book, ‘Fresh Fruits’ can be purchased from www.phaidon.com

Shoichi Aoki’s ‘Fruits’ (2001) is published by Phaidon. ISBN Number 0 7148 4083 1. Price £19.95.

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